How do I create a file shortcut on Android using ES File Manager?

[Android Central Question]

There is supposed to be a "Add to Desktop" option in ES File Manager when you select a file. But when I do so, this option is missing from the "overflow" (or three dots) menu? Can anybody explain why? Does it matter if the file I'm trying to create a shortcut for is "stored" in the Cloud on my Google Drive?

 

[Javier P]

Welcome to the forums. I haven't used ES for a while, but if I remember correctly this option was in the 'more' menu after you select a file.

 

[Rukbat]

Select a file, tap the 3 dot menu and it's the 3rd item down. If the file is on Drive it may or may not work (I haven't tried it) but if it does, you'll have to be connected to Drive to use the shortcut. A shortcut isn't a file, it's a link to a file (in this case, to a file that's on Dropbox).

Also, I've recently noticed that if you put a shortcut to a .txt file on the desktop, a text editor won't open the shortcut (which it should, it says here in "How Computers Work"), you have to open the original .txt file. (Tapping the shortcut will open your default text editor, but that won't read the shortcut either.)

 

[MinnesotaDad]

I'm new to Android Central. Is there anyway to attach a file? I can show you what ES File Mgr SAYS should be there and what it looks like on my Google Pixel XL screen; there are not nearly as many options shown as what's supposed to be there apparently....

 

[2ISAB]

just open a widget for e's and point to file.